Two high profile murders, a letter, and a photograph, launch Ray Kazan - a captain with British Military Intelligence - into the turbulent and dangerous world of Middle East politics. Reunited with his old friend and fellow Academy graduate Baqar El Kordy - a Jordanian army officer - he embarks on a search for the people behind the intrigue. Little does he realise how his life will be affected, not least by the allure of his friend's enchanting sister Leyla, in the deadly hunt for an enigmatic killer and a mysterious organisation known only as Alhalu (the Solution). EXCERPTS: ...... Ray wiped the eyepieces with a corner, hanging loose off his shemaagh, before raising the binoculars and scanning the craggy, precipitous mountain terrain stretching out in every direction as far as the eye could see. "The patrol is returning, Captain Sahib," said the burly, bearded Sikh standing next to him. "I see them, Sergeant Major," responded Ray, watching the line of six figures led by the wiry frame of Sergeant James (Jock) Brodie. "It looks as though they have a casualty," he added, noticing one of the detachment limping and aided by a fellow combatant. "Better alert the medic." "Yes, Captain Sahib," he responded, and pivoting on his heel took off briskly. Salutes were not exchanged between officers and enlisted men. Such gestures or other respectful actions only provided prime targets for the ever-watchful enemy. Insignias and badges of rank or regiment had also been discarded in favour of an anonymous appearance. Like most of the British officers seconded to serve the Sultan of Oman in the little-known war against the communist guerillas of the Peoples Front for the Liberation of Oman and the Arabian Gulf (PFLOAG), Ray had ignored a razor and sported a full beard......